'I have to respect his position' - Mehidy Hasan Miraz downplays rumours of competition with Najmul Hossain Shanto for leadership

The Champions Trophy 2025 will begin on February 19 and this will be a contest between eight of the best teams in international cricket. Bangladesh will feature in this upcoming tournament as well and it will be their fourth appearance.

The last Champions Trophy saw the Bangla Tigers make it to the semi-finals for the first time in the tournament. Though the team has not had great performances in the ODI format this season they do have some talented players in the setup. The side will be led by Najmul Hossain Shanto whose leadership ability and inconsistency are being questioned, and on the other hand Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who has been one of the most trustworthy all-rounders for the team, has also got experience leading the side.

Mehidy was asked during an interview whether he faces competition with Shanto within the team which he denied by opening up on the relationship he has with Shanto and how the position of the skipper should be respected within a team.

“We've been together since U-15 days. Not only one U-19 World Cup, he played under me for 7-8 years. Someone has to have the 'captain' title to march everything on the field, but it's all about a team game. And there's nothing bigger than the country. He's my friend, but I have to respect his position. Tamim bhai once said something in the dressing room which I liked. He especially told me that everyone wants to do captaincy because it's a different experience and environment, but at the same time, everyone should respect the captain's position,” said Mehidy Hasan Miraz as quoted by Cricbuzz.

"Even if there's disagreement or anything, there shouldn't be any bad blood. He probably told this from his experience. That was important because Shanto is my friend, and I have a very good understanding with him. This is totally a misconception. When I was his captain, he helped me,” Mehidy added.

Also Read: WATCH: Suresh Raina, Kevin Pietersen and other experts pick their top four teams for Champions Trophy 2025

I have to take mental preparations beforehand: Mehidy

The Bangladesh team is set to play their first game of the Champions Trophy against India on February 20 in Dubai. There is a lot of curiosity about the conditions. Mehidy has shared his views on this matter and said that the conditions will be tough for the spinners but he is confident since he has experience playing at the Dubai International Stadium.

“Very difficult for spinners, and I have to take mental preparations beforehand. Pakistan will be very challenging. But I've got experience of playing Tests there in Rawalpindi, which will help. I got some idea of how the wicket behaves there. I have experience playing in Dubai as well. Hopefully, these will help,” Mehidy said.